CLIMATE
Think Alaska and most people think only of snow and ice.
It's true that the winter months are spent mostly indoors because of the extreme cold. In winter the sun may not rise till 11:30 in the morning, leaving no more than 4-5 hours of daylight. Temperatures can reach - 80 degrees with the wind chill factor.
However there is a lesser known and warmer side to the state as well.
In the Central Yup'ik area, the short summer season is in July, August when temperatures can reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun is also out about 19 hours a day. At this time the growing is prolific. It is the season of much activity day and night, by people, animals and vegetation.
Summer rains through August mark the beginning of fall. Locals often collect and store these spring rains as fresh water before freeze-up.
More on the Alaskan Climate
Slideshow of "My" Alaska in the Winter
It's true that the winter months are spent mostly indoors because of the extreme cold. In winter the sun may not rise till 11:30 in the morning, leaving no more than 4-5 hours of daylight. Temperatures can reach - 80 degrees with the wind chill factor.
However there is a lesser known and warmer side to the state as well.
In the Central Yup'ik area, the short summer season is in July, August when temperatures can reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun is also out about 19 hours a day. At this time the growing is prolific. It is the season of much activity day and night, by people, animals and vegetation.
Summer rains through August mark the beginning of fall. Locals often collect and store these spring rains as fresh water before freeze-up.
More on the Alaskan Climate
Slideshow of "My" Alaska in the Winter
First freeze up means checking the ice for safety.
Riding on the tundra in summer can still be chilly.
The village has short daylight hours in winter. Ice cleats are essential if you wish to stay upright, when sheet ice lies just underneath the snow.
Beginning of freeze up and treacherous walking time.
Tundra is exposed after months of lying under snow.
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Digging out vehicles is part of the winter scenario.
 A summer's day in the bush.
Even though the day may appear to be warm and sunny, the wind can still be bitingly cold. Bugs can make life miserable for animals and human alike. For these reasons, long sleeves and bug sprays are useful in the summer. |
